Demand for Auckland hotels to peak in 2017

In 2017, Auckland will be abuzz as it hosts a series of world sporting events. This activity, together with the recent earthquake impacts in Christchurch and Wellington, will see unprecedented corporate demand for Auckland hotel rooms over the next 12 months. The following insights and strategies will help you secure your 2017 accommodation in the most cost effective way.

Key factors driving demand

Auckland hotels and room rates are expected to come under significant pressure in 2017, as the city plays host to major world sporting events including the World Masters Games, British and Irish Lions Tour and the Rugby League World Cup. While this is an exciting period for Auckland, it follows three significant developments which are collectively fuelling high levels of demand:

The recent earthquake near Christchurch, which caused damage to buildings more than 200km away in Wellington, where multiple hotels are currently undergoing repair. Many business and tourist travel previously designated for these cities are expected to relocate to Auckland for the short term at least

Exceptionally strong growth in hotel demand and high occupancy rates over the past three years in Auckland, Rotorua, Christchurch, Queenstown and Wellington

Minimal change in new hotel supply, which has caused a critical shortage of hotel rooms in the above cities during high-demand periods.

Corporate booking strategies

With the above factors set to boost bookings for Auckland hotels, tighten availability and push up room rates, companies requiring accommodation in this location in 2017 should not delay.

Book in advance

Booking as early as possible will not only give you more certainty of securing your room nights, but will also deliver cost savings. The following comparison of current and anticipated hotel rates, based on booking now and booking in March 2017, shows savings as high as $200 per room night.

Estimate Room Night Rates (for March 2017)

Book through one source

Your FCM travel manager gives you one booking source through which you can access more inventory in Auckland at the best value. Our One Land solution provides the widest choice of accommodation and ground transport options and rates, from fully flexible/negotiated rates to discounted rates and exclusive member offers. One Land also includes our innovative SmartSTAY and SmartDRIVE programs, which provide up to three (3) complimentary valueadded services with every booking, to give you improved value and comfort in your accommodation and car rental.